Governor Doyle approves $600,000 for specialized public transit in southeast Wisconsin

April 2, 2008

Governor Jim Doyle has approved grants totaling $598,412 for three projects that will enhance local transportation options for citizens with disabilities. The grants will support new public transportation services and alternatives for individuals with disabilities, and will promote coordination between specialized and public transportation in the Milwaukee and Waukesha urbanized areas.

New Freedom program funds, administered by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, are awarded for capital and operating expenses. The matching grant program provides 50 percent to 80 percent of project costs, depending on whether the request is for capital or operating expenses.

• Milwaukee County will use its $450,200 grant to hire a mobility manager and offer travel training programs.
• Community Care will receive $35,062 to hire a mobility manager in Waukesha County.
• Goodwill Industries will use its $113,150 grant to purchase three accessible vans and offer a travel training program to its clients.

Mobility managers coordinate rides and vehicles so that existing vehicles and services can be utilized as fully as possible. Travel training is offered to individuals with disabilities to help them learn how to use a public transit system, allowing them greater freedom and flexibility in using transportation services.

"Those of us who are not disabled often take our mobility for granted," said Governor Doyle. "People with disabilities should have equal access to work, appointments and the full range of local cultural activities."

Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, local governments and operators of public transportation services. The next grant cycle will be announced later this year.

For information contact:
John Alley, Chief, Public and Specialized Transit Section
(608) 266-0189, john.alley@dot.state.wi.us